A national development firm, CRM Companies wanted its headquarters to better reflect its mission to identify and implement “the highest and best use” for real estate. The project brief was to optimize its existing space to create greater opportunities for collaboration and a more welcoming experience for clients. The expanded reception area is reoriented to better engage visitors upon arrival. An underutilized multi-purpose room now has two functions, one a dedicated conference room, and the other a break out area that also serves as a central gathering point. The custom-designed black walnut reception desk and conference table along with an exposed brick wall provide warmth and contrast to the otherwise neutral palette. The interconnected common space doubles as a gallery for a collection of paintings, prints, and sculpture. Among these are original prints depicting the local “Guardians of Traffic” incorporated into new display niches.